IPOH: The “I Lite U” project, introduced in Kuala Lumpur, has been extended to Ipoh as part of preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the initiative, which involves illuminating and beautifying selected parts of the city, will receive a total allocation of RM2mil, RM1mil from the ministry and another RM1mil from the Ipoh City Council (MBI).
"The 'I Lite U' Ipoh project will enhance the city’s appeal as a vibrant tourism destination,” he told reporters at the launch of the Taman Boon Bak Madani recreational park here on Sunday (Nov 2).
Nga said Ipoh has become one of the country’s most popular domestic tourism spots, attracting nearly 10 million local and international visitors last year and ranking first among local destinations.
“However, the city currently needs about 13,000 hotel rooms, but only has around 8,000.
“I encourage more investors to develop eco-friendly and sustainable hotels to support the growing tourism industry,” he said.
Apart from the “I Lite U” Ipoh project, Nga said his ministry has also approved RM9mil for the construction of the new Pasir Puteh Market, which was destroyed in a fire in February last year.
“The temporary market has been completed with an allocation of RM1.425mil, and construction of the new market will begin next year under the 13th Malaysia Plan,” he said.
The project is expected to be completed in 2027.
At the newly completed Taman Boon Bak park, Nga reminded residents to protect public property following recent incidents.
“I must express my disappointment that just two weeks after completion, vandalism has already occurred.
“When I inspected one of the facilities earlier, I found that some screws had been stolen,” he said.
Nga added that under the ministry, a total of 216 similar parks would be completed nationwide by next month.
“We work hard and stay committed, but the public must also play their part in protecting these facilities,” he said.
